Chances of survival are now ‘remote’
Guernsey Police have called off the search for footballer Emiliano Sala, saying chances of survival are now ‘remote’.
The Argentine footballer, who had just signed for Cardiff City from FC Nantes, was on board a light aircraft which went missing on Monday night while flying across the English Channel.
After an extensive search, covering approximately 1,700 square miles, Guernsey Police have ended the search and rescue operation.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Harbour Master Captain David Barker said: “My team have just met to discuss the search and rescue operation which has been underway since the plane disappeared on Monday night.
“Despite the best efforts of air and search assets from the Channel Islands, UK and France, which has covered approximately 1,700 square miles – with a significant amount of this searched more than once – and having examined mobile phone data and satellite imagery, we have been unable to find any trace of the aircraft, the pilot or the passenger.
“There have been over 24 hours of continuous searching, with 80 hours combined flying time across three planes and five helicopters. Two lifeboats have also been involved, as well as assistance from various passing ships and fishing boats.
“We reviewed all the information to us, as well as knowing what emergency equipment was on board, and have taken the difficult decision to end the search.
“The chances of survival at this stage are extremely remote.”
3.15pm Update.
Please read the attached statement.
Unless there is a significant development, there will be no further updates pic.twitter.com/jbEIFMB3zi
— Guernsey Police (@GuernseyPolice) January 24, 2019
The statement continued: “Next of kin have been informed of this development, and my thoughts go out to the family of the pilot and the passenger at the most difficult of times.”
Barker clarified that: “Although we are no longer actively searching, the incident remains open and and we will be broadcasting to all vessels and aircraft in the area to keep a look out for any trace of the aircraft. This will continue indefinitely.”
